U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney E. Slater today announced that 92 projects totaling $93.9 million in 41 states and the District of Columbia will receive funding under the Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) program.

"There grants demonstrate how we can use cutting-edge technology to make our communities more livable and promote strong, sustainable economic growth," President Clinton said. "By better managing our transportation, we can save lives and money, and improve the quality of life for all Americans."

Intelligent Transportation Systems use the latest in computer and communications technology
to maximize the use and the performance of the nation's infrastructure system. ITS improves
safety and operational efficiency at highway-rail intersections and at ports and other intermodal
freight facilities. ITS technology speeds transit toll payments via electronic fare payment
or "smart cards." Technology such as ramp metering, sign boards and traffic control
centers are commonly known ITS applications.

The ITS program was authorized in the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and was reauthorized in 1998 in the Transportation Efficiency Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21). TEA-21 requires that ITS projects conform with the National ITS Architecture and applicable standards.

"These projects will help manage traffic more safely and efficiently -- they represent the kind of innovation that will enable us to meet the transportation challenges of the new millennium," Secretary Slater said. "President Clinton and Vice President Gore are committed to moving America into the next frontier by using technology to increase safety and enhance mobility on our roadways and improve the quality of life for the traveling public."